Breadcrumb

Infectious Diseases

Important Health Notices

The Ministry of Health relies on the AOM to disseminate ministry information to all AOM members during a health emergency such as an outbreak or pandemic. The AOM monitors outbreaks and alerts midwives as soon as possible with the relevant available information to assist in the next phase of planning and implementation for a specific outbreak:

Antibiotics resistant organisms (such as MRSA and VRE) are becoming increasingly common both in health care and community settings and require special considerations in the provision of care.

Bed bugs - Although bed bugs do not carry or transmit disease, they can result in an infestation. Certain precautions can be taken to halt their spread.

Influenza, including H1N1 and varying other strains is an annual concern and pregnant persons and newborns are at an increased risk of complications. The Public Health Agency of Canada influenza awareness resources can be displayed and shared in midwifery clinics.

Pandemic

The Ontario government has stated that during a pandemic, midwives’ role will be to continue to provide services to clients and to expand capacity for critical services. To support midwives in preparing for a pandemic, the AOM has developed a list of 12 discussion points.

Outbreaks and pandemics raise a number of ethical issues, including the duty to provide care, resource allocation when equipment and human resources are scarce, equity, and solidarity. The Joint Centre for Bioethics has issued the guidance document Stand on Guard for Thee.